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Are My Work-At-Home Motives Selfless or Selfish?
by Barb Niehaus, The ParentPrenuer Club

As a work-at-home mom of over 14 years, I am often the envy of other moms that battle the "9 to 5 rat race." Comments frequently heard are, "You are so incredibly lucky to be able to stay home with your kids. I wish I could work from home and be a 24/7 parent."

While wholeheartedly agreeing that I am in an enviable position, there have been sacrifices made in exchange for my current work arrangement. When I opted out of the corporate world, I was fully aware that I was forsaking paid sick days and vacation time, my pension plan and other perks and benefits. My telecommuting status equates to the fact that I am one of the few moms on the block not driving the latest SUV, my kids do not sport designer label wardrobes, a vacation is an unheard of luxury and excursions to restaurants are few and far between.

But....before you bestow the "Martyr and Mom of the Year" award on me, hear this:

I recoil at the mere thought of returning to a "real" job for any amount of money or perks. I chose to be my own boss for myself as well as my kids' sakes. Kids or no kids, working from home is the only way to go! I no longer sit and steam in rush hour traffic, the rising cost of gas has no effect on me, if one of the kids are sick - so what? - I'm here, my work clothes consist of jeans and a t- shirt and if I choose to start my work day at 4:00 a.m. or 3:00 p.m., I can. Meetings are short and sweet -they now consist of a post it note reminding myself of a "to do."

I am so appreciative that I have been able to stay home with my kids but truth be known...long after they're grown and gone; this empty nester will still be leaning over my computer in my home office which is a 20 step commute to work!

Barb Niehaus, webmaster and ezine publisher, is committed to helping others find their "perfect balance between work and family". To receive WAH jobs at no cost every day, send a blank email to momsworkingathome-subscribe@yahoogroups.com Visit Moms@Home Working for more inspiration and telecommuting resources.

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copyright 2003 Barb Niehaus - All rights reserved.

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